Science

Science is taught for a minimum of two hours each week throughout school, and each year groups’ lessons include topics from all of the three main science areas: biology, chemistry & physics. In Reception, science is explored primarily through the ‘Knowledge and Understanding of the World’ strand, which encourages children to explore, problem-solve, observe, predict, think, make decisions and talk about the world around them. The new primary science curriculum (KS1 & KS2) has introduced many new subjects, including: genetics, evolution and palaeontology (study of fossils)! The children also get the opportunity to learn about the lives and achievements of some of the ‘great’ scientists, including: Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, Nicolaus Copernicus, Sir Isaac Newton and Edward Jenner. In lessons, there is an emphasis on ‘hands-on’ investigation to promote knowledge and learning, develop independent thinking skills and encourage the idea that ‘science is fun!’. In addition, the collaborative nature of practical science helps our children to learn to work co-operatively. Our children have access to a wide-range of scientific resources and equipment, which are regularly replaced and/or updated. The ‘Rising Stars: Switched on Science’ scheme of work is used throughout school to support the planning and implementation of science lessons, but staff are encouraged to adapt and/or change these plans to accommodate personal strengths in science teaching, and to include any relevant, topical scientific events. Cross-curricular science learning is actively encouraged – the close links with maths, D.& T., I.C.T and geography are particularly evident throughout school. The result is a rich, engaging science curriculum, which the children find exciting and fun!